AMHERST, Mass. – University of Massachusetts Amherst Chancellor Kumble R. Subbaswamy today praised legislative leaders and Gov. Deval Patrick for their continued support of the University of Massachusetts as the governor signed a budget that ensures a second consecutive freeze in tuition and mandatory fees for in-state undergraduates.

“Our state leaders have again demonstrated their extraordinary commitment to UMass and its future,” said Subbaswamy said. “The Commonwealth’s investment over the past two years is an unequivocal endorsement of the university’s role in providing the residents of Massachusetts with high-quality, affordable educational opportunities.”

With the backing of Gov. Patrick and the legislative leadership, said Subbaswamy, lawmakers approved the second year of funding for UMass President Robert Caret’s “50-50 plan,” which is allowing the university to hold the line on student charges.

“Our students and their families benefit directly from this key investment,” said Subbaswamy. “I want to thank Senate President Therese Murray, Majority Leader Stan Rosenberg and Ways and Means Chairman Steve Brewer as well as Speaker Robert DeLeo and his leadership team, which includes representatives and core campus supporters Ellen Story, John Scibak, Peter Kocot and Steve Kulik. I also want to thank Gov. Patrick for his support and enduring commitment for the flagship campus of the Commonwealth.”

As advocated by Caret, this year’s $519 million state appropriation for the five-campus system is the second installment of a two-year investment that would lead to an equitable sharing of the cost of public higher education between families and the state, a 50-50 split.